Free transport move for over-60s

People aged over 60 will be able to travel for free on buses and trains

Free public transport is to be made available in Northern Ireland for anyone over the age of 60 from 2008.

The move was unveiled by First Minister Ian Paisley as he announced the Executive's Programme for Government.

It was also announced that preparation work would begin on plans for two rapid transit systems for Belfast.

Currently anyone aged over 65 can travel free on public transport throughout Ireland.

The All Ireland Free Travel Scheme was introduced in April.

First Minister Ian Paisley said he was "delighted" to be extending free public transport to over-60s in Northern Ireland.

Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams joked that deputy first minister Martin McGuinness had declared a special interest in it.

"I look forward to him being able to travel throughout the island of Ireland free of all charge.

"I will be a wee bit below and behind him," he said.